inimical
What does "inimical" mean?
The word "inimical" describes something that is hostile, harmful, or actively working against the success or well-being of someone or something else. Imagine a force that is like a natural enemy—it does not just dislike you, it creates conditions that make your progress difficult or impossible. You will most often encounter this word in academic or professional writing rather than casual conversation. It is frequently used to describe abstract concepts, such as environments, policies, or attitudes that are "inimical to progress" or "inimical to public safety," implying a fundamental incompatibility that leads to damage.
"inimical" in conversation
Academic feedback
Your proposed policy is inimical to the core values of this institution.
Your proposed policy is inimical to the core values of this institution.
I see, so it's fundamentally incompatible with our mission?
I see, so it's fundamentally incompatible with our mission?
Used here to describe a policy that actively damages the institution's goals.
Nature documentary
The harsh desert heat is inimical to most forms of delicate plant life.
The harsh desert heat is inimical to most forms of delicate plant life.
It sounds like the environment is basically trying to kill them.
It sounds like the environment is basically trying to kill them.
Used to describe an environment that is naturally hostile to survival.
"inimical" in a sentence
High levels of stress are inimical to good health.
High levels of stress are inimical to good health.
The dictator's policies were inimical to the freedom of the press.
The dictator's policies were inimical to the freedom of the press.
His cynical attitude proved inimical to the team's collaborative spirit.
His cynical attitude proved inimical to the team's collaborative spirit.
